How to Create a Productive Summer Routine: 3 Simple Steps
With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to consider how you want to maintain, rework, or redefine the routines you’ve built over the past year. Whether you're a student on break, a parent with kids at home, or anyone adjusting to a different schedule, creating a balanced summer routine can help you make the most of your time while still embracing the relaxed vibe of the season.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through three simple steps to craft a summer routine that accommodates your goals and allows for plenty of fun. So grab your sunglasses, a cold drink, and let’s dive into how to plan your perfect summer!
Step 1: Create a List of Your Summer Plans and Activities
Start by gathering everything you want to accomplish over the summer. This could include travel plans, household projects, family activities, and personal goals. Write down everything that comes to mind—whether it’s something you’ve already committed to or simply a fun idea you’d like to try.
Examples of Things to Include in Your List:
Personal or Household Projects: Clean out the garage, organize your closet, start a new DIY project, or train for a race.
Daily Activities or Habits: Walk the dog, have a daily family breakfast, read a certain number of books, exercise, or work in the garden.
Fun Summer Activities: Plan weekend getaways, attend summer camps, try new outdoor activities, or schedule downtime to relax at the beach or pool.
By brainstorming everything you’d like to do, you can start to visualize how your summer days might look and identify your priorities.
Step 2: Organize Your Schedule with a Planning System
Once your list is complete, it’s time to start organizing everything. Whether you prefer a digital calendar like Google Calendar or a physical planner, putting everything in one place is key to staying on top of your commitments.
Tips for Organizing Your Summer Schedule:
Mark Known Dates: Add any fixed commitments, like vacations, appointments, or events, to your calendar first.
Estimate Dates for Flexible Activities: For projects or activities without set dates, choose rough timeframes (e.g., “Complete home project in June” or “Schedule weekly family hikes”).
Identify Busy and Free Weeks: By laying everything out, you'll get a clear picture of when you have a packed schedule versus free time. This will help you avoid overloading yourself on any given week.
Pro Tip:
Share your calendar or planner with your family, roommates, or colleagues, so everyone knows when you're available or busy. You can set up a shared Google Calendar or place a physical calendar in a common area.
Step 3: Create Structure with Flexibility
With your activities and schedule in mind, it’s time to think about structuring your free days while still allowing room for spontaneity. The goal is to establish routines for the times when you’re free, but also leave space for fun, relaxation, or unexpected plans.
How to Structure Your Days:
Create a Time Block for Daily Activities: If you’re free in the afternoons, designate a set time—like 1–4 p.m.—for outdoor activities, hobbies, or family time.
Morning Routine: Consider setting a morning routine that could include a walk, gym time, or family breakfast. You could start each day with some movement to help your body and mind get energized.
Dedicated Project Time: Block off time for personal or household projects, like organizing the garage or working on a hobby. A couple of hours a few times a week can help you make steady progress on your goals.
Set a “No Screens” Time: After dinner, have a rule where no one in the family is on their devices, and instead focus on quality time—whether it’s a board game, homework, or a summer movie night.
Having a framework in place for when you’re not otherwise occupied helps you stay productive while still enjoying the freedom summer offers. By defining some key activities and times, you'll maintain your established habits and prevent slipping into an unstructured routine that may lead to feeling overwhelmed.
Finding the Balance Between Productivity and Relaxation
While summer is all about relaxation and enjoying the sunshine, it’s important to have some structure that helps you balance your goals and downtime. Establishing a summer routine doesn’t mean you have to over-schedule yourself, but having a clear outline can help you stay on track without losing the flexibility that summer brings.
Remember, your routine can be adjusted at any time. It’s all about finding a balance between productivity and leisure so that you can enjoy your summer to the fullest while still keeping up with your commitments and personal goals.
So take a moment to plan out your perfect summer routine—then sit back and enjoy the ride! Whether it’s catching up on personal projects, enjoying some outdoor fun, or simply relaxing, you’ll be ready to make the most of the sunny days ahead.
Would you like more tips for organizing your time this summer? Check out our other resources on executive function coaching, productivity, and time management for students, parents, and young adults.
For more tips on time management, organization, and more core executive function skills, browse our website or contact us to learn more about our executive function coaching services!
